How To Use RTP Apparel

One of the most common questions asked about RTP Apparel products is how to properly use them when DTG printing. We have put together a quick tutorial for our users so they can find the best solutions in using RTP in their shops.   PRE-PRINTING PREPARATION: ALWAYS pre-press the shirt prior to printing. This is to remov

RTP Apparel Style 1600 Pink ModelOne of the most common questions asked about RTP Apparel products is how to properly use them when DTG printing. We have put together a quick tutorial for our users so they can find the best solutions in using RTP in their shops.

 

  • PRE-PRINTING PREPARATION:
    • ALWAYS pre-press the shirt prior to printing. This is to remove the moisture.
    • You can use any heat press, but the BEST option is to use high pressure and a cover sheet (protects the shirt from anything on the heating surface of the heat press).
    • Ensure NO moisture is coming off the shirt  – that’s when you know it is ready to print.
    • Pre-Pressing also helps flatten any fibers if present.
    • Whenever heat pressing the shirt prior to printing OR curing the inks – always thread the shirt onto the platen (i.e. press only one layer of fabric at a time to avoid moisture blowing into the other side of the fabric).
  • PRINT LIKE NORMAL. These shirts DO NOT change the way you print.
  • CURING THE INK with a HEAT PRESS:
    • Follow your ink manufacturer’s curing process.
    • Always thread the shirt onto the heat platen to cure the ink. This will help avoid potential issues for subsequent printing locations.
    • Always use a cover sheet. Find the best that works with your ink set.
    • Remember – cover sheets wear out. Sometimes they can transfer images to other shirts. Always be aware of this to avoid screwups!

  • CURING THE INK with a Conveyor Dryer:
    • You may need to insert a slip sheet in-between the front and back of the shirt to avoid moisture burn off from your ink set. Excess moisture evaporation can cause potential printing issues for multiple locations.
  • POST HANDLING:
    • DO NOT STACK hot shirts on top of each other. Allow them to cool properly before stacking.
    • Stacking shirts while hot and too many in a stack (they get heavy) the inks still are reacting and gassing off as they cure. During this process vapors can discolor or ghost to other fabric. Allow to completely COOL.
  • WASHING OF RTP APPAREL:
    • To get the best durability of your RTP Apparel shirt and print;
      • Allow 24 hours after printing and curing BEFORE washing.
      • Wash in cold water.
      • Wash inside out like any other shirt.
      • Tumble dry low heat or hang dry.
      • Normal Shrinkage is +/- 5% when washing as noted above.
  • STORING OF RTP APPAREL:
    • Store out of direct sunlight.
    • Store in climate controlled area if possible.
    • Keep dry.
  • PRIOR TO WEARING RTP APPAREL:
    • Always wash an RTP Apparel shirt before wearing the first time (just like your underwear or other garments you purchase)
    • Keep out of direct sunlight. UV light can be harmful to the shirts.

If you have other questions or suggestions for us, please let us know via our Contact Page.